Implementation

We also welcome the adoption of the resolution 2106 (2013), on strengthening of the prevention and prosecution of conflict-related sexual violence, and support the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Sexual Violence in Conflict.

On 12 March, the Government of Colombia approved the national policy on gender equity and a comprehensive plan to guarantee a life free of violence, which constitute reference points for the design and implementation of sustainable actions for the protection of women and to ensure the effective enjoyment of women's rights, with a focus on peacebuilding, cultural transformation and the promotion of the participation of women in positions of pow

In considering this issue, the Council and United Nations bodies should strictly adhere to the agreed terms of mandates in the resolutions on women and peace and security that are aimed at protecting women in situations of violence, particularly sexual violence, as well as decision-making in conflict and post-conflict situations.

Colombia understands that the role of women in a post-conflict situation is critical from the moment that an agreement to achieve peace is sought. In that regard, my Government has actively encouraged the participation of women in the ongoing peace process. For example, the first phase of the process, known as exploratory talks, was led by a group of five persons working on behalf of the national Government, two of whom were women.

Additional actions are being developed, such as setting up institutions for the exclusive purpose of guaranteeing the rights of the victims and implementing an emotional recovery strategy, in which more than 3,000 women are taking part.

Secondly, the Security Council should play its unique role fully, while strengthening its coordination and cooperation with related organizations and agencies.

In order to promote women truly shouldering their peacekeeping roles and playing at important part in peacebuilding processes, the various United Nations bodies and entities should work in accordance with their respective mandates, with a clear division of labour and as one. I wish to highlight the following four points.

First, it is national Governments that have the primary responsibility to protect women's safety and their rights and interests. The international community should support the countries concerned in their efforts to that end by providing constructive assistance.

While our country has periodically taken part in these debates, our comments today are special significance since this is our first speech following Chile's election as a non-permanent member of the Council for the period 2014-2015.

In the spirit of brevity, I shall limit my remarks to several issues raised in the Secretary-General's recent report (S/2013/525) that we consider particularly important.